Greece › Santorini › Kid-Friendly Hotels
By Santorini Dave
My Favorite Hotels in Santorini
• Fira: Athina • Aria Suites
• Oia: Katikies • Canaves Suites
• Imerovigli: Grace • Astra
• Firostefani: Tsitouras
• Beach: Istoria
• For Families: Aria
• Best Pool: Nous
• Midrange: Enigma • Kavalari
Two beachfront pools at Sea Breeze – the best beach hotel for families in Santorini (but admittedly, a little isolated).
Santorini Family Hotels – Where to Stay
- The best places on Santorini for families: Fira, Oia, Firostefani, Imerovigli, Kamari, and Perissa.
- Fira is busy and lively. Firostefani and Imerovigli are quieter and walking distance from Fira. Oia is best for a stroller. Kamari and Perissa have the beaches but no caldera views.
- Best Luxury Hotel for Families in Santorini: Villas at Aria – separate from the hotel suites, each have their own private jacuzzi, and you can still use the large pool at the hotel.
- Best Hotel for Families in Fira: Aria Suites
- Best Hotel for Families in Firostefani: Tsitouras Collection
- Best Hotel for Families in Imerovigli: Andronis Concept Wellness Resort
- Best Hotel for Families in Oia: Andronis Arcadia
- Best Beach Hotel for Families: Sea Breeze
- Abelonas Retreat in Imerovigli is a great mid-range hotel for multiple families traveling together.
- Best Cheap Hotels in Santorini for Families: San Giorgio Villas (Fira) • Merovigliosso Apartments (Imerovigli)
- Best Villa for Families in Santorini: Oia Mansion – Features 4 bedrooms, full kitchen, huge private patio with sunset views, and hot tub.
The 38 Best Hotels for Families in Santorini
1. Aria Suites & Villas – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28650
Great location a short walk from central Fira but down a quiet lane away from the crowds. Nice pool and views of the caldera. The Carmen and Norma Suites have two bedrooms and comfortably sleep a family of 4 or 5. The Fidelio Villa is the largest onsite with 2 bedrooms (1 is a loft) and 2 sofa beds, for a family of 6; villas add private heated plunge pools and are located a short walk from the hotel and main pool. Full Review of Aria Suites and Villas.2. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 36767
Family-centric, luxury hotel offering spacious suites and villas, all with private heated plunge pools, plus 3 larger shared pools (2 are heated). Family perks include kids’ yoga and spa treatments, tennis, cooking classes, and kids’ amenities in the suites and at the pool. The restaurant menu is overseen by a nutritionist and offers healthy, delicious options all day with many ingredients grown on site. Full Review of Andronis Concept Wellness Resort.3. Sea Breeze Beach Resort – Perivolos
Hotel phone: +30 22864 40600
Five-star yet fun for kids, Sea Breeze is a charming boutique resort set on a nearly private, fully-serviced beach with two childrens’ pools (and two for adults), kids menus in the restaurant, and babysitting on request. All rooms, suites, and duplexes include an outdoor jacuzzi or heated, jetted pool, private terraces or patios, walk-in showers, and thoughtful extras like complimentary water shoes for the beach. Gourmet but unfussy dining is on offer at the hotel’s poolside restaurant, snack bar, and lounge; breakfast is always included in the room rate. Set at the southernmost tip of the island, a rental car is advisable for stays here.4. Athina Luxury Suites – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24910
One of only a handful of family-friendly hotels on the caldera’s edge, Athina boasts sunset views over the volcanoes and an excellent location just steps from the island’s best restaurants and attractions. This boutique hotel offers babysitting service and has several suites large enough to sleep families of 4 to 6. The infinity pool overlooks the caldera and boasts a new swim-up bar. Excellent restaurant, attention to detail, and friendly owners and staff. Full Review of Athina Luxury Suites.5. Andronis Arcadia – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 22860-27392
Luxurious hotel with family-sized suites and enormous villas for up to 12 guests, all boasting private, heated pools and sunset sea views (not the caldera). The largest villa has 6 bedrooms and 2 private pools. Facilities and amenities include a sea view infinity pool, 2 restaurants, and free daily yoga, hikes, and personal training. Great location in Oia, walking distance to dining and sights, but removed from the busy core and quiet at night.6. Noūs Santorini – Mesaria
Hotel phone: +30 21032 73200
Sprawling, luxury resort spreading out over 45 acres and boasting the largest pool on the island, which takes up a whole acre on its own. A second, heated, indoor/outdoor pools is in the wellness center. Restaurants on site offer Mediterannean comfort food, casual favorites, while the Vitamin Bar serves only organic, unprocessed small plates and juices. Suites and bungalows boast private, heated swimming pools; all rooms types offer one king or two twin beds, walk-in showers, and private terraces. 16 rooms have connecting options to become eight family suites. Its smooth design with plenty of ramps and elevators make it easy to get around with a stroller. Central location in the interior village, Mesaria, just a short walk to a handful of great restaurants and an easy bus or taxi to the caldera in Fira or the beaches at Kamari, Perissa, and Vlychada.7. Tsitouras Collection – Firostefani
Hotel phone: +30 22680 23747
Small, luxury hotel with an infinity pool, complimentary a la carte breakfasts, fewer stairs than neighborhing properties, and sweeping caldera views over the volcanoes. Spacious 1 and 2-bedroom suites sleep up to 5 guests; the 3-bedroom villa sleeps 6 with a full kitchen and a private pool. Great food and drinks are available all day, made with careful consideration of special diets or food allergies. Free arrival and departure transfers. Located a 3-minute walk to the Firostefani bus stop and great restaurants. Full Review of the Tsitouras Collection.8. Celestia Grand – Mesaria
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25900
Luxurious villa collection, each unit with kitchenettes, spacious terraces, private heated pools, and sunset caldera views. All villas have indoor jacuzzi tubs, some add outdoor hot tubs, the largest have 2 bedrooms and 2 floots. Perks include airport and port transfer, an all-day shuttle to Fira, and daily breakfast delivery. Full Review of Celestia Grand Villas.9. Tholos Resort – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 22618
All-suite hotel in the caldera with a pool, gorgeous sunset views, a creative Mediterranean restaurant, and a la carte breakfast delivered daily to each suite. 1 and 2-bedroom suites and the villa accommodate 4 to 5 guests, with kitchenettes and private, outdoor jacuzzis; the villa adds an indoor swimming pool. Located in Imerovigli near Skaros Rock and outstanding restaurants.10. Canaves Epitome – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72499
For ages 6 and older (though this policy is somewhat flexible). This all-suite and villa hotel features a sea-view infinity pool, 2 modern Greek and Mediterranean restaurants, and champagne breakfast. 1 and 2-bedroom villas sleep families of 3 to 5, all with private, heated pools and terraces with sunrise and sunset sea views (not of the caldera). Excellent location in Oia, walking distance to dining, shopping, and attractions, yet still very quiet.11. Rocabella Santorini – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22861 10000
Dreamy hotel on the caldera with 3 pools (1 heated), a Mediterranean restaurant, and a spa. Rooms, lofts, and suites sleep families of 4 to 6, most with private, heated pools or jacuzzis on their terraces. Family perks include kids menus in the restaurant, all-day room service, and babysitting. Rocabella sits in a quiet location north of Imerovigli village; a free shuttle to Fira is offered from June through September.12. Bellonias Villas – Kamari Beach
Hotel phone: +30 22860 31138
Beachfront boutique hotel with a pool, jacuzzi, and beach club. Apartment Suites are best for families, sleeping up to 5 with a separate bedroom, kitchenette, and private terrace. Construction is mostly flat and easy to navigate with a stroller. The hotel’s beach area is next to the lifeguard stand, and the beach club offers free SUP for guests. Near several good restaurants, the boat to Perissa Beach, and the outdoor movie theater.13. Mr & Mrs White – Finikia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71319
Beautiful hotel with 2 heated, caldera-view pools, one of which has an attached jacuzzi. Family Suites (one-bedrooms suites with a queen-sized bed and double sofabed) and Two-Bedroom Suites (1 queen and 2 twin beds) sleep up to 4 guests; the Two-Bedroom Suite adds an outdoor jacuzzi. Breakfast is delivered to each suite daily, while the restaurant and bar serve Mediterranean refreshments throughout the day. Wonderful location on the caldera at Finikia, just a short walk from the dining, shops, and sights of Oia village.14. Windmill Villas – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25207
Whimsical collection of three private villas built as traditional, Cycladic windmills in a lush garden setting filled with local trees, herbs, and fruits. Each two-story, two-bedroom, two-bathroom villa has a full kitchen, patio, outdoor dining table, a private pool, and its own private parking spot. Baby cots, highchairs, and babysitting service is available on request. Kids will find a playground and open-air cinema on site. Breakfast is complimentary and delivered to each villa daily at your time of choice between 8:00 and 11:00. The villas are located on the back side of Imerovigli village near Pori Beach. A car is handy to have for stays in this area.15. Elysian Santorini – Finikia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71434
Spacious 1- and 2-bedroom luxury villas, each with a private pool or jacuzzi and sunset views over the Aegean Sea (not the caldera). The hotel is designed like a village, with winding paths and gardens between the buildings, plus one of the largest infinity pools on the island. The location in the traditional village Finkia is incredibly peaceful: removed from the crowds, yet still accessible to the caldera sunsets, fine dining, and shopping of Oia. Full Review of Elysian Santorini.16. Astra Suites – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24763
One of the best luxury hotels on Santorini, with a beautiful pool and incredible sunset caldera views. The hotel is mostly adults-only, though older children are allowed in The Family Suite and the Astra Private Villa (500 meters from the main hotel). Both the suite and the villa offer 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchenettes, and private outdoor jacuzzis; the Astra Private Villa has its own pool. Full Review of Astra Suites.17. Santorini Princess Presidential Suites – Akrotiri
Hotel phone: +30 22860 85150
4 lavish 3-bedroom/3-bathroom villas, all with heated private pools and outdoor jacuzzis, lawns and gardens, private gyms, parking spaces, and panoramic sunset views over the caldera and volcanoes. Services include daily breakfast delivery, daily maid service, and a 24 hour staff. A recent renovation has added a full-service spa, community pool, kids’ pool, restaurant, and bar. Full Review of Santorini Princess.18. Santorini Kastelli Resort – Kamari Beach
Hotel phone: +30 22860 31530
Luxury resort with 7 pools (4 for all guests and 3 semi-private), a holistic spa, vineyard, and fitness center. Their Suites sleep up to 4 guests and can be 1-bedroom or loft style with a queen-sized bed and 2 single-sized sofa beds in the living area. Located in Kamari, less than 500 meters from the beach and a short walk to the open-air cinema.19. Galaxy Suites – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 22753
Luxury boutique hotel with 2 pools, a fantastic restaurant, and direct sunset caldera views throughout the property. The hotel offers 2 spacious villas for up to 6 guests, each with 150 sqm of living space, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a private pool, and indoor jacuzzi. Its restaurant and pool club are among the very best in Santorini.20. Mill Houses Elegant Suites – Firostefani
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27117
Upscale, cave suites with clean lines and cosmopolitan style. Facilities include a caldera-view pool and the much-loved Mylos Restaurant, set in a distinctive Cycladic windmill. All suites include a private terrace with an outdoor dining space and caldera view, kitchenette, and queen-sized bed. The Traditional and Mill Suites sleep 3 or 4 guests and add an outdoor jacuzzi. Baby cots are available at no cost; babysitting can be arranged with advanced notice. Excellent location in Firostefani, near the village’s best restaurants and just a short walk to the Fira and Imerovigli.21. Vedema Resort – Megalochori
Hotel phone: +30 22860 81796
Family friendly, 5-star resort with spacious suites, a fantastic restaurant, and a pool in the heart of Santorini’s wine country. Vedema Resort offers 1- and 2-bedroom suites and 3-bedroom villas interspersed with gardens, which create much more privacy than you’ll find in any caldera hotel. Located within the traditional village Megalochori, there are several restaurants and wine tasting rooms nearby, plus Vedema offers free transportation to Fira and Perivolos Beach. Full Review of Vedema Resort.22. Dreams Luxury Suites – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28787
Cheery boutique hotel with large suites for up to 5 guests. All suites have kitchenettes, outdoor jacuzzis, and private terraces with expansive caldera views; most have private, heated pools. A la carte, champagne breakfast is served to each suite daily. Located in a quiet area at the south end of Imerovigli, just a 10-minute walk to the heart of the village and a 5-minute walk to neighboring Firostefani for more dining options.23. Zoe Aegeas Traditional Houses – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71466
Charming, cave-style villas with caldera views near the Byzantine castle ruins. Spacious houses all include kitchenettes and terraces with panoramic sunset views; the largest sleeps up to 6 guests. A simple breakfast is provided daily with homemade cakes, bread, and espresso prepared by the owners, a welcoming Greek couple.24. Kalestesia Suites – Akrotiri
Hotel phone: +30 22860 85097
Wonderful hotel with a pool, game room, and spa. The split level Deluxe Family Suites are the largest, with a queen-sized bed on 1 floor and 2 singles on the other, plus a sofa bed in the living room, a kitchenette, and a private terrace with caldera views. The Luxury Suite is smaller but with a similar configuration and a private, rooftop jacuzzi. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and their pool bar and restaurant offer a great selection of kid-friendly favorites, like pizza.25. Voreina Gallery Suites – Pyrgos
Hotel phone: +30 22860 30700
Family-run, boutique hotel offering nine Cycladic-style suites and one villa, all with private jacuzzis or swimming pools, private terraces, and cozy fireplaces. All but one suite includes a fully-equipped kitchen. Most suites sleep up to three guests, while the Master Suites sleeps four and the three-bedroom villa sleeps six. Breakfast is complimentary and delivered directly to each room daily. Excellent location in traditional Pyrgos, the highest village in Santorini, only a five-minute walk to the heart of town. A rental car is needed for exploring the island from here.26. Enigma Suites – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24024
Boutique hotel with an all-day café and just 8 suites located on the caldera in the heart of Fira. All suites have a private terrace with caldera sunset views. Junior and Senior Suites sleep up to 4 guests, while Premier, Exclusive, and Signature Suites sleep 5 or 6 guests and include private, outdoor jacuzzis. Superb location, especially for families who prefer not to rent a car. Tons of great restaurants, sights, and museums are in the area, and the bus station to the smaller villages, beaches, airport, port, and Ancient Akrotiri is only 250 meters away.27. Strogili – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 2286 071125
Charming hotel offering a large pool and sweeping caldera views in a quiet area near the heart of Oia. Cave Houses and Villas offer large private terraces and sleep up to 5, while One-Bedroom Villas with Hot Tubs sleep up to 4. Located at the east end of Oia, near several cafes and restaurants, about a 4-minute walk to the pedestrian-only path and about a 10-minute walk to the heart of the village.28. Tamarix Del Mar Suites – Kamari Beach
Hotel phone: +30 22860 34173
Mid-range hotel with a large outdoor pool and attached kids’ pool, a small indoor heated pool in the spa, a playground, and babysitting on request. Almost all suites and apartments sleep 4 to 5 guests, though the split levels (maisonettes) are the most spacious and comfortable for families. All units include kitchenettes and a few add private, outdoor jacuzzis. The poolside restaurant offers daily lunch and a complimentary, American breakfast buffet. Just a 2-minute walk to Kamari Beach, several restaurants, and beach clubs. Full Review of Tamarix del Mar Suites.29. Aqua Blue Hotel – Perissa Beach
Hotel phone: +30 22860 85015
Beachfront hotel with 2 pools and a kids’ pool, a serviced beach area, and a Mediterranean restaurant. A few room types sleep up to 4, but the Maisonettes (lofts) are best, with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a kitchenette. Aqua Blue is one of only a handful of wheelchair accessible hotels in Santorini, and the staff is super helpful and ready to assist. Convenient location on Perissa Beach with many places to eat and drink within a short walk.30. Anemomilos Hotel Apartments – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71410
The best value hotel for families in Oia. There’s a nice pool with a large deck and sun chairs. Shops and restaurants are a 5-minute walk away. There is a 1-bedroom with hot tub and caldera views and the 1-bedroom with sea view (facing the opposite way of the caldera) is a great deal if you’re looking for something cheaper. Full Review of Anemomilos Hotel.31. Gabbiano Traditional Cave Houses – Oia
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72107
Just 3 apartments here, all with fully-equipped kitchenettes, private outdoor jacuzzis, stellar caldera views, and highly personalized service. Guests have the option of adding breakfast to their stays or booking the apartments only. The location is within an easy walk of the center of Oia and all of its dining, shopping, and best-loved attractions. Full Review of Gabbiano Traditional Cave Houses.32. Kamares Apartments – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28110
Wonderful, cave-style apartments with kitchenettes, stunning caldera views over the volcano, and large terraces, most with private jacuzzis. The Deluxe Apartment is the largest, sleeping up to 4 guests. A complimentary, a la carte breakfast is served to each apartment daily. Located in a quiet corner of Fira, yet only a 4-minute walk from the heart of the village.33. Santellini Hotel – Kamari Beach
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28866
Cheerful hotel with a pool just a short walk from family-friendly Kamari Beach, the open air cinema, plenty of dining, and water sports. This mid-range/budget hotel offers 5 Maisonettes with pool views, each with a queen bed in the loft and 2 single sofa beds on the main floor. A homemade breakfast buffet is included in the room rate, plus they have an all-day pool bar serving drinks and light meals.34. San Giorgio Villas – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23516
Family-owned, budget hotel with a pool on a quiet side street in Fira, just a 5-minute walk to the caldera, dining, attractions, and the bus station. The cheapest hotel with quality family rooms in Fira, San Giorgio offers triple and quadruple rooms, with the deluxe and superior categories recently renovated. For stays of 3 nights or more, complimentary port or airport transfers are included.35. Santorini Mansion – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27076
Tiny hotel (just 3 suites) with incredible caldera views. All suites include kitchenettes (fully equipped and stocked with essentials) and both indoor and outdoor heated jacuzzis. The Cave House and Superior Apartment (Loft) comfortably sleep 4 to 5 guests. Fantastic walkable location in Imerovigli village near several wonderful restaurants and the hiking trail to Skaros Rock.36. Merovigliosso Apartments – Imerovigli
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25950
The best budget hotel for families in Imerovigli, boasting a great location, a small pool, and partial caldera views. 1-bedroom Deluxe and Luxury Apartments sleep up to 4 with 1 queen bed and 2 sofa beds, a jetted bathtub, and kitchenettes. A continental breakfast is delivered daily to each apartment’s private balcony. Just steps from great restaurants and the bus stop.37. Ikastikies Elegant Suites – Firostefani
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23881
Cozy boutique hotel with cave-style architecture and breathtaking caldera views. A couple of the hotel’s suites offer kitchenettes, 2 bedrooms, and sleep families of 4. The Rosa Suite is a loft with the bedrooms on separate floors, while the Spilia Suite is all on one level and adds a second bathroom and private pool. Breakfast is served to each suite daily. Great location in Firostefani, near blue-domed churches, great restaurants, and just a 10-minute walk to the capital Fira.38. Costa Marina Traditional Villa – Fira
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28923
Affordable, family-owned hotel surrounded by lush gardens a short walk from the heart of Fira, but removed from the crowds. The Quadruple Rooms comfortably sleep 4 guests with a queen bed on the main floor and 2 single beds in the loft. The space is cozy but well-organized for efficient use of space. Service is warm and attentive.
I'm Santorini Dave. I started this site in 2011 with a short article on tips for visiting Santorini with kids. We're now a small team of writers and researchers dedicated to providing the best travel content on the internet. We focus on 
Hi Dave
We are looking for a hotel with a kid club that would occupy and take care of our 6-year child during the day while we go around with my wife. Any suggestions? In case we want to hang out by night, are there hotels proposing a babysitting service?
Thanks
Raoul
There are no kids clubs that I know of on Santorini. Most hotels (certainly the better ones) can arrange babysitting.
Hi Dave, Thank you for all the great info on this blog. I am thinking of going to Santorini, and possible Mykonos, late May/early June with our two children (6 and 8yo). Do you think it is mandatory to rent a car in those 2 islands, or are the bus routes sufficient to just “hop” to another village? I see that you mention quite a lot on some of the hotels recommended in Santorini that they are close to the bus stop – so perhaps a car is not needed? Thank you for your recommendation. Anne
In Mykonos there is less to see (the main places are the beach and Mykonos Town and they’re generally well-connected by bus). In Santorini, there’s much more to see and do. Much of that can be done with tours and bus rides but you’ll definitely see more of the island if you have a rental car, though I wouldn’t say it’s a necessity.
Hi Dave, Great site thanks.
Can you recommend any Windsurfing companies in Naxos? We are specifically looking for board hire.
Thanks, Chris
Good windsurfing companies for board hire are Laguna Beach Park in Stelida, Naxos Kitelife at the north side of Mikri Vigla, and Ride with the Gods at the south side of Mikri Vigla. Rates are similar at all locations, and all require an IKO level check before renting. Naxos Kitelife has a reputation for quality board rentals, but the tightest regulations, with boards only available to use at their designated beach area, only for 2-3 hour sessions, and they charge €20 if you fail their IKO check. Ride with the Gods offers quality boards, more flexibility with use of their rentals, and has board/gear storage available. I think Laguna Beach Park caters more toward beginning windsurfers, but they have excellent gear for rent and great rates on multi-day rentals.
Hi Dave,
I love your site! such great travel advice.
I am staying in Santorini next year in May and have booked Canaves Oia suites for 3 nights. However, when we arrive in Santorini we have 1 night prior to Canaves Oia Suites, that we haven’t booked. My partner and I can’t decide if we should stay in Fira or Imerovigli for our first night prior to going to Canaves Oia Suites. What would you recommend, Imerovigli or Fira?
Fira is the nightlife and shopping hub of Santorini. Imerovigli is much quieter, no nightlife or shopping (beyond a few food markets), and 8 to 10 restaurants. Oia is sort-of a blend of those two places (much busier and more shops than Imerovigli, but not the nightlife, bars, and clubs of Fira). So, if you want more activity and buzz, I recommend Fira. Otherwise, I’d stay in Imerovigli.
Hi Dave,
Your blog is so helpful. We are a family of 7 – 5 children 22,21,18,16 and 7. We will be traveling in Santorini last minute in June, would you recommend VRBO or which hotel for our large group, we are willing to get 2/3 rooms. What are your thoughts on Tholos or El Greco?
Thank you
Tholos is wonderful with great caldera views and an idyllic location in Imerovigli. The pool is small but nice. El Greco is outside of Fira. Walkable to Fira – but it’s a long walk if it’s hot. It feels more like a resort. Not as charming but the pool is much larger and rooms bigger too. VRBO (and Airbnb) are great when they work out. It’s the inconsistency that makes them hard for me to recommend.
Hi Dave,
We are traveling early June with 3 teenage boys. I’ve decided to stay in a hotel after reading your comments on staying at an Airbnb. I’d love some advise on which beach town to choose. The caldera side looks amazing but I’ve been told beach town is better with teens. Also, beach side seems to be better priced. We are not looking to break the bank.
Thanks,
Cathy
Yes, beach towns have cheaper hotels and if the kids like to swim obviously there’s that appeal. (There’s no sea swimming when you stay along the caldera.) Kamari is more of a proper town, closer to the caldera, and has a great open-air cinema. Perissa has nicer sand and a cooler vibe in my opinion.
Hi Dave
We would really appreciate some advice on a great hotel to stay in during our visit to Santorini. We are arriving 2 May and staying for 5 nights. My mum has always wanted to visit Santorini so my sister and I are taking her. We have looked at hotels.com for a hotel with a caldera view, ideally, we are looking for a 1-2 bedroom with at least a queen bed and a double sofa bed. Currently I am holding the Iliovasilema Suites, which is at the top end of our budget. Should we look for hotels in Akrotiri or Pyrgos or is this location a little too remote and we would need a car to get around? Really appreciate your help. Realize we are only a month out from travelling, but hoping your advice will help us make the decision to firm up a reservation with the hotel we are holding or go with your alternative recommendations.
Regards Michelle
Iliovasilema Suites has a great location in Imerovigli. I definitely recommend staying there over some place in Akrotiri or Pyrgos which is away from the main caldera villages and yes, then you would need a rental car. Iliovasilema Suites has wonderful views and you’re just a short walk to some of the island’s best restaurants.
Hi Dave,
I am planning a travel with my wife and almost 20 months old. I am trying to decide between Aria Suites (villa) or Oia Mansion. It looks like villa is pure luxury while mansion is a great location for young kids?
Please let me know.
Thanks
Mike
They are both wonderful places – two of my favorites but fairly different. Oia Mansion is basically a four-bedroom house with a huge private patio on top (and smaller one below by the entrance). It has lots of space inside and out. Crowds gather around Oia Mansion for the sunset (it’s smack in the middle of the prime viewing spot in Oia) but there’s a ton of private space for you and your family (the crowds are around the property but obviously not inside the grounds of Oia Mansion). The villas at Aria Suites are closer to a large hotel suite with a shared deck/patio with the four other villas. All villas have a private jacuzzi but not all are right on the edge (though you’re only steps away). There are large “curtains” that separate the space for each villa but you sort-of walk through those to get in and out of the villa property. There are no crowds immediately around Aria Villas. (So a little less privacy within the property but more privacy from the outside world as compared to Oia Mansion). Both properties have private hot tubs, but neither has a swimming pool right on the property. At Aria Suites it’s a 1 minute walk to the Aria Suites Hotel where there’s a beautiful pool (free to use for villa guests). At Oia Mansion it’s a 3 minute walk to Lioyerma cafe and pool bar with an equally nice pool (free after you buy drinks and food). Both places have great restaurants and a few small markets within a 3 to 5 minute walk.
Hi, amazed to see the amount of quality information on this blog. Me and my 6 year daughter planning to spend 4-5 days in Santorini during October half term, this year. Will the weather be ok? Don’t need a large room, as it’s just 2 of us, would love a private pool and a view, where they would allow kids, Fira sounds like a great place, as is close to restaurants etc.
Any recommendations?
Aria Suites is the most family-friendly hotel with both pool and caldera views in Fira. Weather in early October should be warm and beautiful but not hot.
Hi there,
We are travelling to Santorini with two boys aged 11 and 14 in July. I can book the Princess Spa hotel now or wait until August to see if the Aria or Astra Suites have availability. How do these hotels compare?
Many thanks,
Nicole
If you can cancel for free then book Princess Spa now and keep an eye open for Aria and Astra. The big difference between the 3 is location. The Princess Spa is on a stretch of caldera with little around it (about a 20 minute walk to Imerovigli). Astra is in the sleepy town of Imerovigli (a handful of great restaurants but few shops or shopping). Aria is in Fira (lively with lots of shopping). The boys would probably prefer Fira.
Hi David, I am planning a late trip to Greeks isles late June/early July for 8 nights with my wife and 2 kids (9 and 7).. we are looking at Santorini for 2 nights and Mykonos for 6 nights. We have booked Aria Suites in Santorini and looking at Saint John in Mykonos. The hotels in Platos Gialos which you seem to recommend are heavily booked and/or very expensive now.
Would you recommend staying in Saint John which seems to have private beach and good facilities for kids ? We want to be close to beach and have quality rooms/facilities
Aria Suites is wonderful for a family, so good choice. Saint John Resort in Mykonos is very nice but not without some caveats: beach is small and not nearly as nice as Ornos or Platys Gialos beach, some tavernas nearby but not a lot of choice, a little isolated from the other beaches and Mykonos Town, most rooms are several levels above the beach so you’re not walking out your room and straight into the water. Renting a car makes seeing the rest of the island much easier if staying out here.
Thank you for the route recommendation! That’s very helpful. We originally weren’t going to do an actual stop in Rome but with your recommended itinerary we now plan on buying a multi city trip with a LAX to Athens then a Rome to LAX and buy a separate one way trip from Santorini to Rome with the last part of our trip being a 3 day Rome trip. Would you recommend against that? With that added itinerary, would you recommend splitting Naxos and Santorini and just doing a day trip to Mykonos or is Mykonos worth a 3 day trip. Also, do you recommend doing 3 nights in Fira and 2 in Oia if we want to stay there for longer or do you think moving around would be too much with our 5 year old. Lastly, what are your thoughts on the Anteliz Suites in Fira. I didn’t see them on your site but maybe I missed it. Thanks so much!
Apple
A stop in Rome sounds great. And splitting time between Fira and Oia is also a good idea. Anteliz Suites are very nice. Two caveats: lots of walk-by traffic with people looking into the pool area. And not actually located in Fira. It’s up a steep hill from Fira on the footpath’s route to Firostefani. Climbing hills is all part of being in Santorini but be prepared for a pretty good climb every time you return to your hotel from the shops and restaurants of Fira.
Hi there, your site is amazing! Thank you for putting in the time to support all of us with such knowledgeable content! My significant other and I are planning our first Greece trip with our 5 year old daughter. She is pretty socially mature and vacations well. We are planning on being there for 13 days (potentially 15) and wanted to know your opinion on how many days should we spend in the different areas. We like to do a combination of spending time at the beach/pool, relaxing, some sightseeing and eating great food. I was thinking of the combo: Athens 2 days, Santorini 4 days, Mykonos 3 days, Naxos 4 days. We are flying in from Los Angeles with a stopover in Rome so not sure if we should spend more time in Athens since we’ll be in a 16 hour flight prior to and not go to Naxos. I also don’t want to feel like we just keep moving around. Wondering what your thoughts are on Crete and if it is better to see than Mykonos or Naxos. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks so much!!!
Apple
I think that’s a perfect itinerary – a good mix and not too much moving about. Adding Crete would change your plans a lot and probably not worth the effort (not that Crete isn’t wonderful, it is, but so are Naxos and Mykonos and they’re much easier to get to given your route). Not sure if you’ve booked all your travel yet but I would recommend doing something like:
-fly Rome to Athens
-ferry Athens to Mykonos
-ferry Mykonos to Naxos
-ferry Naxos to Santorini
-fly Santorini to Rome
Or could do in the opposite direction as well.
Santorini Dave,
I posted a comment on your other blog, but maybe this is a more appropriate spot, given we are traveling as a family…Hello! My husband and I are traveling in late September – early October with our 4 young children (age 8, 6, 4, 1) to celebrate my 40th birthday. We are considering one night Athens, 3-6 days in Naxos, 3 nights Santorini, 5-7 nights Crete. Is this itinerary advisable?
Also, in Santorini, we plan to splurge on Katikies or Perivolas if either is available. It’s a big splurge. Do you recommend one over the other for young kids? Are there restrictions you know of? I have always wanted to stay at one of these two hotels. Any other insights or recommendations in Oia that we should strongly consider, and that would be comparable to these two?
Also adding after some reasearch…I notice Perivolas (which we are leaning toward) is glaringly missing from your list. On their room descriptions, it says, “Children are not encouraged.” Every room says it. This is a big birthday for me, I have always wanted to stay at one of these two hotels. It is late in the season and they appear to still have pretty open availability at this time. Think they will be ok with our crew?
Neither Katikies or Perivolas will allow young kids. With an email you might get away with 10 or 12 year olds, but there’s no way you’ll get accepted with a 4 and 1 year old. Astra and Aria Suites are the most luxurious hotels with caldera views that allow children.
Are there baby diapers available for purchase on Santorini?
Yes. The grocery store in Fira (as you head south out of town) has the most baby supplies. Here’s what they have in the way of diapers.
I am planning a 4 night trip to Santorini. After reading your blog, i got interested on Aria Suites, but when I checked availability, it was already full for June. Me and my husband and our 7 year old daughter are going in this trip. Our choice is Aressana. Is this a good hotel?
Aressana is very nice but does not have any caldera view. If you’re not committed to a view hotel then El Greco is more kid-friendly than Aressana. The tradeoff is that it’s a 10 minute walk outside of Fira whereas Aressana is right in heart of the town. I personally, would go with Aressana but it is a bit more boutiquish.
Hi
Your blog is great and extremely informative.
My husband and I along with our 3 year old will be in Santorini in May first week.
With a kid, I’m quite confused about my choice of hotels.
After reading your reply in Q&A I found Strogili in Oia quite good. Is the location and resort convenient with a kid?
My other options were:
Aressana Resorts and Suites in Fira.
Agali Houses.
I liked Astra Suites too, but would prefer a place where I spend Eur 700 for 3 nights.
Can you please guide or suggest any other options.
Deepa
Of the 3 hotels you’re looking at Strogili and Agali are the most kid-friendly (Astra is great too, but yes it’s more expensive). With Strogili you’re a little outside of Oia. It’s a nice walk from the hotel to the shops and restaurants but at one point you have to walk along a busy-ish road for 90 seconds. Not a deal breaker but it is a bit of a hassle. With Agali you’ll have lots of stairs to climb each time you leave the hotel.
We will be traveling to Santorini in July this year for 3 nights. We are 2 adults and 3 children, ages 7,9,11.
We would like a caldera view and a pool. What do you recommend?
Tina
Great choices: Strogili in Oia (apartment is short walk from pool), Tholos in Imerovigli (villa is expensive but you get your own private plunge pool), and Aria Suites in Fira (large suites but not right on the edge of the caldera – back a little but still has views).
Hello
We are planning a 3 week trip to England for a family member’s wedding from the US in July. We will have our 6 month old with us and this will be our first vacation as parents. I’ve always wanted to go to Santorini and would love to spend 5 or 6 nights in Greece. I like the Astra Suites and would definitely book there for Santorini. Instead of staying in Santorini the entire time, I think it would be nice to go to a beach, baby friendly, luxury hotel. Where would you suggest that would be easy to get to? We really love luxury and good food!
Thanks!
Kecia
Astra is wonderful so good choice. For a beach hotel do the Ios Palace Hotel on Mylopotas beach in Ios – easy to get to from Santorini (short ferry ride), beautiful beach, pools, and good restaurants both near the beach and a short bus ride away in the Chora.
I am planning a trip with 8 year old and 10 year old. I think I prefer Oia. I like the Strogili Traditional Houses as they are on caldera and have rooms with kitchenette. What is your opinion with kids this age? Is it too far from town. Other choice we were considering were the villas at the Anenomilos Apartments as they are on the caldera but still have access to the swimming pool and have kitchenette. Any other places you suggest that are friendly to kids this age and with pool and caldera view?
Here is a picture where you can see Anemomilos and Strogili pools. The pool at Anemomilos is on the left (#1). It doesn’t have caldera views (the views you see on the website are looking east – fine but not what makes Oia so special). The rooms at Anemomilos are mainly in that large building beside the pool but there are also a few suites and villas (some with caldera view) up the street (around #4). The Strogili pool is the one almost in the center of the photo (#2). It does have caldera views but the pool doesn’t sit right on the caldera’s edge – it’s back just a little and across a footpath from the cliff. The reception at Strogili is along the path a short distance (#3) and the suites are down the stairs to the left of that little building. Central Oia is along the road (towards #4) just beyond the point visible in the photo the footpath ends and you need to walk on the road for about 100meters before rejoining the road. It’s not a big deal but a little bit of a pain to have to deal with the traffic while on foot (and more so with kids). That said, the distance to town is short and I wouldn’t worry about that – good for everyone and beautiful views the whole way. Hope that helps.
Hello. Question, I’m planning a trip to Santorini in early June. It will be myself, husband, and 11 month old. I am in love with the view of Oia village (you know the white and blue domes)! Anyway, I’m trying to find a luxury hotel in oia with an infinity pool and great view of Oia village, but am having trouble finding a place that allows infants. Any advice would be much appreciated. I could spend up to 250 euro a night, maybe 300 euro if it’s perfect!
There are not a lot of infinity pools in Oia, few that allow kids, and almost none that are less than 300 euro. The closest you’ll get is Strogili and Delfini Villas – both very nice but not exactly what you’re looking for.
Hi – love your blog. I have a six and a four yr old and we’re looking to go to at the end of June beginning of July from Amsterdam. We’re open to any islands however I would like luxury accommodations that are kid friendly. Can you give me a recommendation on which islands would be best for us and what hotels?
Jessica
The best luxury hotels for families on the Greek islands are the Nissaki Beach in Naxos, Ios Palace on Ios, the Astra and Aria Suites on Santorini, and the Petinos Beach Resort on Mykonos. All have large suites, nice pools, and great locations.
Just want to thank you for your information. All the comments have really helped us plan our trip and book the hotels! Travelling with 2 year old, can’t wait to see Santorini!
Emily
Hi, your blog and tips are great! Thank you. This is our first time to Greece and we have two teenage kids. We’ve heard Greece is great with teens because of history and plenty of down time/beach time. We were thinking of a few days in Santorini to relax. We were looking at Oia in Santorini – but are there hotels or apartments that are both walking distance to the town and the beach? Any recommendations?
Also, any thoughts on this 10 day itinerary: 2 or 3 days in Athens, rest of time in Santorini for a little culture and plenty of relaxing OR would you recommend one other island for relaxing in addition to Santorini? Thanks!
Jennifer
Oia is not close to the beach (it’s a 20/30 minute drive to the main beach resorts) so no, there are no hotels walking distance to both town and the beach. Oia is walking distance to a great swimming spot just beyond Amoudi Bay but this is jumping off rocks and paths into the ocean, not a beach.
For 10 days in Greece I would recommend 1 or 2 days in Athens, 4/5 days in Naxos (great beaches), and 4 days in Santorini.
Thank you!
Hi David – Love your blog. We are visiting Santorini this May but are in a bit of a pickle. We have a young child (3 years old) and a limited budget (<$250 / night). We would like to stay close enough to the caldera to have a view from the room, but not so close as to constantly worry about where the kid is. I also understand that most of the hotels near the caldera won't even allow any young children to stay. Can you please make a recommendation as to potential good hotels to stay at the top of our budget? Thanks.
El Greco is a short walk outside of Fira. It is on the opposite side of the road from the caldera and has lots of space and nice pools for kids. It should have comfortable rooms for your budget.
I have a question – I am traveling with a friend and we both have 2 children both over 7. We were thinking of doing a cruise to include Greece and Turkey this summer – would you suggest otherwise?
It looks like Naxos is kid friendly and not sure that is one visited on the cruise.
We are traveling from San Francisco airport so trying to see a good bit but keep costs reasonable.
Any suggestions would be great!
Thanks,
Glenda Grant
Cruises are not a good way to see the Greek Islands. You don’t get long on each island. When you do visit you’re in a pack of tourists from the cruise ship. You don’t (usually) stay on the island for the night – the towns and villages really come alive at night and by then the cruise passengers are long gone. The food in Greece (and Turkey) is one of the highlights of a visit but when you’re on a cruise you’ll be eating half or more of your meals on the ship (and the food will be average at best, and quite possibly terrible).
Naxos is a wonderful island, but you’re right, not a common cruise ship stop.
Hi David,
Great blog! We are getting married in Santorini in September and are looking for somewhere to stay with our baby who will be 1 years old by then. Can you recommend somewhere for us to stay (area/hotel etc) which is baby friendly and doesn’t have steep steps to get to?
Thanks :-)
Ariel
Aria Suites is great for families with babies. The hotel is on one level (suites surround a beautiful pool). Nice views but not right on the caldera and not many steps to access. There’s parking nearby (once again, without stairs to get in and out). Shops and restaurants are an easy 3 minute walk away.